ZnS/SnS Heterostructures Encapsulated in N-Doped Carbon Nanofibers for High-Performance Alkali Metal-Ion Batteries.

Heterogeneous composite ZnS/SnS is designed to meet various requirements for alkali metal-ion batteries. The composite is prepared using an electrostatic spinning method and encapsulated in N-doped carbon fibers after high-temperature vulcanization. The special structure of the composite provides a dependable interconnection and fast conductive network for alkali metal ions. The conductive carbon network shortens the diffusion path and greatly improves the migration efficiency of the alkali metal ions in the electrode. As expected, when the current density is 0.1 A g, the ZnS/SnS@NCNFs maintain a high discharge capacity of more than 1437.5, 1321.2, and 861.6 mA h g for lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and potassium-ion batteries, respectively. What is more, a full cell using a prelithiated composite anode and a LiFePO cathode is tested and shows excellent electrochemical performance. This work provides new perspectives for the development of novel anodes that can efficiently store alkali metal ions, as well as for the fine-structure design of materials.